"Lack of information before gynae appointment at Jessops"

I had a terrible experience when I went for a day appointment in the Gynecology department at Jessops. My first impressions weren't good. The doctor wasn't wearing a coat and had no name badge. He wasn't clearly identified as a doctor. There was a student in the room for my entire examination, but I was never asked if I minded. Not a good start, but things got worse!

I was under the impression that I was simply going in for an examination. However, without asking or even telling me, the doctor performed a biopsy. It is a very private area, and an examination is invasive enough. But having a biopsy performed without knowing that would happen, was unacceptable. I had no anaesthetic for the procedure. I thought you always had anaesthetic for a biopsy! I lost a lot of blood and was very weak after the procedure.

Had I been informed that I was going for such an invasive and major procedure I would have arranged for a friend or family member to be present to hold my hand and help me afterwards. I didn't know before hand, but I really needed a friend.

After my appointment I felt weak and tired. It was a traumatic event. I rang my husband, who had to leave work to come and collect me from hospital. Given my history I felt I needed to be informed of what would happen before the event, so that my husband could have been with me.

I have another appointment soon, but I am terrified to go back! I will definitely take a friend next time. All I ask is that in future I am informed if a major procedure is going to be carried out.